In an effort to address the concerning trend of low voter turnout witnessed in the initial phases of the Lok Sabha election, officials in Bhopal have devised a unique strategy. Recognizing the importance of every vote, authorities have introduced a compelling incentive – a lucky draw held every two hours throughout the voting day in the Bhopal constituency, a TOI report stated.
The scheme offers an array of enticing prizes including diamond rings, refrigerators, televisions, and various other goodies. With Bhopal scheduled to cast its votes in the third phase on May 7, this initiative aims to invigorate voter participation.
Statistical data indicates a notable decline in polling rates across Madhya Pradesh this election season, marking an average decrease of over 8.5% in the first two rounds. Historically, voter enthusiasm in Bhopal has been subdued, with the turnout during the 2019 elections merely inching up to 65.7%, despite a surge in voting elsewhere.
Expressing optimism, election officials anticipate that the prospect of rewards will motivate citizens to step out and exercise their franchise, particularly amidst the scorching heat expected to surpass 40 degrees Celsius on polling day.
Kaushlendra Vikram Singh, the district election officer and collector, elucidated, “On polling day, we will hold three lucky draws at every polling booth – at 10am, 3pm, and 6pm. One winner in each of these draws will win a prize. And then, a day or two after the election, we will hold a mega draw where big prizes will be distributed to the winners.” He underscored that the initiative aims to enhance voter awareness.
The Bhopal parliamentary constituency comprises 2,097 polling booths, translating to over 6,000 prizes alongside bumper rewards. Singh revealed the operational details, stating, “We are collecting these gifts and prizes under CSR. On polling day, a BLO and a volunteer will be deployed in each polling booth for the lottery. Every booth will have a coupon booklet, and the duo will ensure that voters write their name and mobile number and collect a coupon after they get inked. We will contact the voters and give them their gifts after each draw.”
Furthermore, Ritesh Sharma, the assistant nodal officer for SVEEP in Bhopal, disclosed plans to honor the first voter in every booth. Regarding the post-election mega draw, Sharma mentioned, “So far we have received 35 items, including five diamond rings, a laptop, a refrigerator, eight dinner sets, and two mobile phones. We are aiming to get two-wheelers. We are hopeful that there will be enough gifts.”
Efforts are also underway to ensure seamless facilitation for voters. Sharma emphasized, “We are also ensuring that every voter of the constituency gets printed voter slips. There should be no gap in ensuring that voters can easily locate their polling booth.”
The date for the post-election mega draw remains undetermined but is anticipated to occur after May 9, concluded Sharma.
